Panettiere splits from boxer boyfriend

The Heroes star, 21, has been dating the Russian sportsman, 35, since 2009 but they have now revealed the relationship is over. Panettiere confirmed the news in a statement, obtained by Germany’s Bunte.de, while the boxer has blamed the split on their struggle to maintain a long-distance relationship.

Panettiere’s statement reads, “While we decided to split, we feel great sympathy and respect for each other and will surely stay close friends.”

Klitschko adds, “We had a great time together. But more and more we realised how difficult it is to maintain a relationship when living on two continents… I cherish Hayden as a person and woman. I’m sure we will stay friends.”

Panettiere previously dated her Heroes co-star Milo Ventimiglia. They split in early 2009.